Introduction
In the face of rising chronic metabolic diseases, alternative dietary approaches are gaining traction. The carnivore diet, which exclusively consists of animal products, has become popular due to anecdotal reports of its benefits for inflammatory conditions. This article delves into the carnivore diet, its potential benefits and drawbacks, nutrient adequacy, and how it relates to Cerule products, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding for various audiences.
Understanding the Carnivore Diet
The carnivore diet is a restrictive dietary strategy that involves consuming only animal products. Proponents suggest that eliminating plant antigens and xenobiotic secondary metabolites may offer immunological and inflammatory benefits beyond standard low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diets. While carbohydrate reduction has established benefits for metabolic health, the anti-inflammatory claims of the carnivore diet lack extensive peer-reviewed literature.
Despite conflicting with mainstream dietary advice, the carnivore diet has gained popularity. A survey by Lennerz, Mey [13] of over 2000 adults following a carnivore diet reported resolution or improvement in conditions such as obesity, diabetes, gastrointestinal issues, and dermatological problems. Participants with diabetes noted significant reductions in insulin and oral diabetic medications, along with BMI and glycated haemoglobin.
Nutrient Adequacy of the Carnivore Diet
Like other restrictive diets, the carnivore diet faces scrutiny regarding nutrient adequacy. Vegetarian and vegan diets, which exclude animal products, often lead to nutrient deficiencies. Similarly, carbohydrate-reduced diets are criticized for restricting food groups. A perspective suggests that all essential nutrients can be obtained from a carnivore diet [14]; however, limited literature examines actual nutrient intakes.
A study assessed the micronutrient adequacy of four carnivore diet versions against national Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs) set by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and New Zealand Ministry of Health (MOH) [21].
Read also: Benefits & Risks: Carnivore Diet in Old Age
Methods of Assessment
The study designed four carnivore meal plans, two each for theoretical male and female case studies based on average Australian demographics. The study used national median heights from the Australian Bureau of Statistics [22] and a healthy BMI of 22.5 to calculate body weight. Total energy expenditure was estimated using the Schofield equation [23] with an activity factor of 1.6. Macronutrient proportions were approximated using anecdotal evidence, dietitian experience, and practical food considerations, with protein at 25-30% of energy intake and fat at 70-75%. Carbohydrate intake was kept below 5%.
Two meal plans were created for each gender, one including dairy products to reflect variations in the carnivore diet. Liver was also included in one meal plan per gender due to its high micronutrient content and popularity among carnivore dieters. Meals were developed based on whole food principles, emphasizing ruminant meats, fats, and limited quantities of pork, chicken, and fish. The diet plans aimed to reflect different variations by including dairy and liver in separate meal plans.
Results of Nutrient Analysis
The analysis showed that the carnivore diet met several NRV thresholds for nutrients such as riboflavin, niacin, phosphorus, zinc, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, selenium, and Vitamin A, and exceeded the sodium threshold. However, it fell short in thiamin, magnesium, calcium, and Vitamin C, and in iron, folate, iodine and potassium in some cases. Fibre intake was significantly below recommended levels. The addition of dairy resulted in higher calcium intake, while the inclusion of liver resulted in adequate iron intake. Using iodized salt led to sufficient iodine intake.
Key Micronutrient Considerations
B-Vitamins
Diets excluding grain-based foods are often criticized for B-vitamin deficiencies. While riboflavin, niacin, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12 were consistently sufficient, thiamin (Vitamin B1) was consistently insufficient. Thiamin is crucial for cellular energy metabolism [24], and deficiency can lead to diseases like beri beri and Wernicke’s encephalopathy [21]. A relationship between carbohydrate intake and thiamin requirements exists, but it is conflicting. High glucose doses can lead to acute thiamin deficiency [24], while early beri beri cases were linked to polished grain consumption [21]. It is speculated that carbohydrate reduction may lower thiamin requirements by reducing glycolytic metabolism [20]. Individuals on a carnivore diet should be aware of thiamin inadequacy risks.
Folate is another B-vitamin that may be inadequately consumed without proper planning. Folate is mainly sourced from green leafy vegetables, but liver and eggs can provide sufficient amounts. For example, five eggs provide 89% of the RDI for folate in the male case study.
Read also: Nutritional Value of Chicken
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is interesting in the context of a carnivore diet. O’Hearn [14] suggests that the absence of scurvy among those consuming largely animal-based diets may be due to meat's antiscorbutic properties [26]. Scurvy may develop from carnitine deficiency, which can be derived endogenously using Vitamin C but is also abundant in meat. The large quantities of carnitine in an animal-based diet may provide Vitamin C sparing effects [14]. Research is needed to confirm this theory.
Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, and Sodium
Calcium and magnesium intakes were below the RDI in all meal plans, while potassium was below the AI threshold in most plans. Sodium exceeded thresholds significantly. Dairy products can help meet calcium requirements, but versions of the diet excluding dairy may lead to calcium deficiency.
Sodium Intake
All four versions of the carnivore diet significantly exceeded the sodium threshold.
The Role of CERULE Products
StemEnhance ULTRA
StemEnhance ULTRA is a clinically tested blend featuring StemEnhance from AFA, Mesenkine from Spirulina, and Fucoïdan (Undaria pinnatifida). It is designed to activate the body's stem cells, promoting faster recovery, increased energy, and improved brain power.
Cyactiv
Cyactiv is used to provide additional support when needed.
Read also: Alzheimer's Disease: The Role of Saturated Fat
CERULE Skin Care
CERULE offers a range of skin care products, including Instant Tensor Serum and AFA night cream. The Instant Tensor Serum works to smooth the skin, while the AFA night cream rejuvenates the skin overnight.
Additional Insights from Health Q&A Sessions
Iodine Supplementation
Iodine supplementation and testing were discussed, focusing on how to assess iodine status, safe supplementation practices, and the connection between iodine and thyroid health.
Fasting and Autophagy
The benefits of fasting and autophagy were explored, including the different stages of fasting, common experiences, and considerations specific to each gender.
Food Quality
The nitrate content in processed meats was discussed, differentiating between science and fear-based claims.
Nutritional Toxicity
Understanding nutritional toxicity and the benefits of organ meats was highlighted, providing insights into a balanced and nutrient-rich diet.
Addressing Skin Issues
Addressing skin issues like dandruff and dermatitis was covered, along with the impact of diet on skin health.
Sweeteners
The impact of sweeteners on health was discussed, offering insights into healthier alternatives and their effects on the body.
Steroid Use
The dangers of steroid use in young men were addressed, emphasizing the importance of understanding the health risks and long-term consequences.
Cloudy Urine
The causes of cloudy urine on a carnivore diet were explained, providing guidance on maintaining proper hydration and kidney health.
Animal Proteins
The benefits of different animal proteins were explored, highlighting the nutritional advantages of incorporating a variety of animal-based foods into the diet.
Boron and Bone Regrowth
The role of boron in bone regrowth was discussed, along with its potential benefits for overall bone health.
Ketosis and Intermittent Fasting
The advantages of ketosis and intermittent fasting were explored, providing insights into how these practices can enhance metabolic health.
Transitioning to a Carnivore Diet
Recommendations for transitioning to a carnivore diet were offered, including dietary adjustments and strategies for managing potential challenges.
MCTs and Hormonal Transport
The role of Monocarboxylate Transporters (MCTs) and their impact on hormonal transport were discussed, highlighting their significance in thyroid health.
Histamine Management
Histamine management and the use of DAO supplementation were covered, offering strategies for individuals dealing with histamine intolerance.
Organ Meats
The nutritional value of organ meats was emphasized, highlighting their role in providing essential vitamins and minerals.
Fermented Foods
The impact of fermented foods on gut health was explored, discussing their benefits for improving digestion and the gut microbiome.
Lion Diet
The lion diet and its effects were discussed, along with addressing common dietary issues like caffeine withdrawal and calcium intake.
Sleep Habits
The importance of sleep habits for overall health was discussed, along with strategies for improving sleep quality.
Autoimmune Reactions
The impact of diet on autoimmune reactions was explored, focusing on how dietary changes can help manage autoimmune conditions.
Weight Gain Strategies
Weight gain strategies and nutritional advice were shared, offering insights into healthy ways to increase body mass.
Detox Pathways
The importance of detox pathways and how to support them through diet was discussed.
MTHFR Mutation
The implications of MTHFR mutations were explored, along with recommendations for managing this genetic variation.
B Vitamins
The role of B vitamins in health was highlighted, emphasizing their importance for various bodily functions.
Food Sensitivity Testing
The nuances of food sensitivity testing were discussed, along with its role in identifying potential dietary triggers.
Protein Intake
The significance of protein intake for optimal health was emphasized, highlighting its importance for muscle building and overall well-being.
Methane Emissions from Cows
Concerns about methane emissions from cattle were addressed, providing a balanced perspective on the environmental impact of meat consumption.
Weight Management
Weight management strategies and approaches to reducing body fat were discussed, offering practical tips for achieving a healthy weight.
Glucosamine
The use of glucosamine for joint health was explored, along with its potential benefits for individuals with arthritis.
Skin Oils
The effects of skin care oils were discussed, providing insights into how different oils can impact skin health.
Insulin Resistance
Seasonal variations in insulin resistance were examined, along with strategies for managing blood sugar levels throughout the year.
Ketones
The relationship between blood glucose and ketone levels was explored, highlighting the metabolic advantages of ketosis.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D production in woolly animals was discussed, providing insights into the unique ways animals obtain this essential vitamin.
Glycation
The implications of glycation in diabetes were explored, emphasizing the importance of managing blood sugar levels to prevent glycation.
HbA1c Readings
The significance of HbA1c readings was discussed, along with their role in assessing long-term blood sugar control.
Pre-Diabetes
The deception surrounding pre-diabetes was addressed, highlighting the importance of early intervention and lifestyle changes.